When I say Beer Fest, I don't mean the 2006 film starring Jay Chandrasekhar, I'm talking about a Toronto summer tradition for fans of the hops, the Beerlicious Festival at Historic Fort York. Running from Thursday August 7th with the Bowman's Ball, through sold-out dates on Friday and Saturday and ending on Sunday August 10th, this marks the 13th year for the festival and they don't seem the least bit concerned with that superstitious number!

This year, to add some spice for Beerlicious regulars, Thursdays' Bowman's Ball kick-off event has a special guest component, a performance by the British ska band, The English Beat. What better way to start the festival than with some beer and a good round of Mirror in the Bathroom?

The breweries represented at Beerlicious have always run the gamut from frat-friendly, to award winners from all across the globe. For example, in one corner you'll have Red Stripe providing fest-goers with funky straw hats, or Coors giving away foam funnies, while in the other you'll have brewmasters explaining the process in creating masterpieces such as the Belgian beauty Duvel or the unique, oak-aged perfection of an Innis and Gunn.

Now for some tips for first time attenders. Always bring extra money as the ticket price only includes 5 tokens which will be gone faster than you can say, well, anything. While the festival does have ATM's they also come with high convenience fees. Save yourself the trouble and anticipate your drinking ahead of time. Also? Sunscreen and perhaps an umbrella as the forecast calls for rain. Thirdly, make sure to bring TTC tokens. While there are cabs lined up at the exits, getting into one can be as dicey as New Years, the streetcar will be your friend. The last tip is mostly for women, but bring extra tissues or some toilet paper in your purse. Trust me, with the size of the lineups for the port-a-potties, you don't want to be caught...wet-handed.

If you haven't already purchased your tickets for the festival, don't hesitate! Today is the last day to purchase discounted online tickets to guarantee your attendance. Friday and Saturday have already sold out, but Thursday and Sunday are still available. See you at the festival!

Image: Toronto Beer Festival by theGentries flickr-pooler stillsinflux